Interplay of light and matter: A ‘perfect’ attosecond experiment

Novel experiments using ultrafast pulses are currently revolutionizing laser physics research. They deliver unprecedented insights into matter – into the structure and dynamics of electrons in atoms, molecules and in condensed phases. Using what is known as an attosecond experiment, physicists have managed to completely measure and describe the quantum-mechanical wave function of an ionized electron.

Novel experiments using ultrafast pulses are currently revolutionizing laser physics research. They deliver unprecedented insights into matter – into the structure and dynamics of electrons in atoms, molecules and in condensed phases. Using what is known as an attosecond experiment, physicists have managed to completely measure and describe the quantum-mechanical wave function of an ionized electron.